Background: Physical fitness (PF) is a powerful determinant of health. The aim of this study was to examine the relationships between sports club (SC) participation and PF, and Body Mass Index (BMI) in children.
Methods: The population included 15,625 children (8029 boys and 7596 girls) 5 to 10 years old divided into three aged groups. PF was assessed with the Diagnoform® Kid (IRFO, Loos, France) from 5 tests measuring different components: cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength, speed, coordination, agility, and flexibility. BMI was calculated. SC participation was documented. The sports were classified into four categories based on the educational goal (C1, C2, C3, C4). The relationships between sex, age, BMI class and SC participation were tested.
Results: The children who practiced in SC had better PF than those who did not. C1 (track and field, swimming, triathlon, and cycling) and C4 (team, combat, and racket sports) sports seemed to be associated with a better PF.
Conclusions: This study showed that SC participation may be an element for building health. Preventive healthcare projects for SC dropouts (obese children and girls) are needed.